Trip summary statistics
Limited DatesApril – December Only
14days
Rhine and Swiss Highlights
Zurich, Lucerne, Europe River Cruise, Basel, Rhine River Cruise, Breisach, Kehl, Mainz, Rudesheim, Cologne, Amsterdam
Stroll Lucerne’s scenic streets, then craft sweet creations in a fun chocolate workshop.
Set sail for 7 nights on the romantic Rhine, exploring charming towns en route to Amsterdam.
Savor shore time with Alsace wine, Heidelberg Castle views, or Cologne’s historic Old Town.
Discover Van Gogh's masterpieces and the story behind his genius in a guided museum tour.
Consult a Cruise Expert to craft your ideal voyage, available March through December.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
The Best of Land & Sea
The finest cruises paired with privately guided land tours
We expertly plan
Private guides, wonderful hotels and the perfect cruise itinerary & ship selection
We don't settle
Refining your itinerary until you're happy, even while you're traveling.
When would you like to travel?
Select a month
What's your ideal trip length?
If anything changes, we can always adjust.
Prefer to speak with a cruise expert?
ZurichGet In and Get Some Rest
- Airport with Meet & Greet - Private Transfer
- Switzerland Welcome Package
- Independent Discovery of Zurich
- Self-Guided: A Taste of Zurich
Zurich to LucernePound the Pavement
- Zurich Unveiled Walking Tour (2 hrs) - Private
- Zurich to Lucerne by Private Car | 45 mins
LucerneTreasures and Pleasures
- Lucerne Walking Tour (2 hrs) - Private
- Exclusive Chocolate Workshop at The Max Chocolatier Design Studio (2 hrs) - Private
Europe River Cruise to Lucerne to Basel to Rhine River CruiseAll Aboard!
- Morning at Leisure
- Lucerne to Basel (1.5 hrs) - Private
- Basel - Embarkation
- Avalon Waterways Amenities & Inclusions
Breisach to Rhine River CruiseThe Land of The Brothers Grimm
- German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black Forest
Kehl to Rhine River CruiseTaste and Tipple on a Vineyard Visit
- A Grand Cathedral and La Petite France
Mainz to Rhine River CruiseQuintessential Castles
- Castle Walls, and the World’s Biggest Wine Barrel
Rudesheim to Rhine River CruiseOf Vineyards and Vintages
- Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country
Cologne to Rhine River CruiseA Healthy Dose of History
- Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland
Amsterdam to Rhine River CruiseCross an Item off the Bucket List
- Canals of Colorful Amsterdam
AmsterdamMarching through the Museum
- Amsterdam - Disembarkation
- Port Transfer with Meet & Greet - Private
- Netherlands Welcome Package
- Van Gogh Museum Walking Tour (4 hrs) - Private
- Self-Guided: A Taste of Amsterdam
AmsterdamHone Your Skills
- Delft City Tour with Tile Making & Factory Visit (8 hrs) - Private Tour
AmsterdamIconic Beauty
- Windmills and Village Charms: Zaanse Schans & Volendam (4 hrs) - Private Tour
AmsterdamUntil Next Time…
- Airport Transfer (departure) - Private
ZURICH
Get In and Get Some Rest
Upon arrival to Zurich Airport, an English-speaking representative will be waiting for you near the luggage pick-up area, holding a sign with your name on it. This representative will direct you to your awaiting vehicle and driver who will transfer you to your hotel.
A Welcome Package with a copy of your itinerary, tickets (if relevant), and any other information that we deem you may find useful, will be provided to you in destination.
With some time at leisure, embark on a self-guided stroll through Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich. Boasting a mix of world-class shopping, mouthwatering food, and medieval delights, many come to find Zurich as one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. Within your final trip documents, you’ll receive a supplemental composition showcasing our suggestions for a self-guided stroll in Zurich, as selected by Kensington Tours Destination Experts.
As with any unfamiliar city, choosing where to dine can often pose a challenge. To assist, you’ll receive a supplemental composition within your final trip documents, showcasing our top restaurant suggestions for Zurich, as selected by Kensington Tours Destination Experts.
Where you’ll be staying
Design Queen Room
ZURICH TO LUCERNE
Pound the Pavement
Explore the city center of Zurich on a relaxing walking tour through Switzerland’s largest city and one of the world’s most important financial centers. With your private guide, wander along the streets and take in a good overview of Zurich’s many sides. Stroll through the business district, lined with ample shopping opportunities, through the Old Town, and along the lake to recharge amongst the greenery of the city’s recreational areas on the outskirts. Visit FraumÜnster to see Chagall’s stained-glass church windows and stop at the lake for a wonderful panoramic view of the city.
* Please note, as this is an orientation tour, admissions (if desired) are payable on the spot.
Your private driver meets you in Zurich for the transfer to Lucerne.Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe Room Lake Side
LUCERNE
Treasures and Pleasures
Step into the pages of a storybook as you embark on a private guided walking tour through the enchanting city of Lucerne, led by your knowledgeable English-speaking guide. Situated on the picturesque banks of Lake Lucerne, this charming city boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture waiting to be explored. Begin your journey by crossing the iconic 14th-century Chapel Bridge, a symbol of Lucerne's medieval heritage. As you traverse the Mill Bridge, marvel at the macabre Dance of Death paintings adorning its wooden panels, offering a glimpse into the city's artistic past. Pass by the imposing Musegg Wall, once part of the old city ramparts, and admire the stately Town Hall, where suits of armor harken back to the Middle Ages. Your exploration continues to the revered Lion Monument, a poignant tribute to the Swiss Guards who valiantly defended the Royal Palace in Versailles during the French Revolution.
Chocolate is often synonymous with Switzerland – a must taste experience for anyone with a sweet tooth. Enter a chocolate lover’s paradise at the Max Chocolatier Design Studio for a private tour of the chocolate-making facilities with a tasting to follow. The chocolate experts will take you on a journey into the world of cocoa and impart knowledge about the quality and ingredients of their chocolate gems. Learn the history of chocolate, sample some of their offerings, and then take the unique opportunity to try your hand at the traditional craft yourself. Learn their handcrafting skills and put it to practice as you make your very own chocolate delicacy and soon discover whether you too are a secret chocolatier. Please note that your tour will be conducted by a member of Max Chocolatier, and transportation to and from the venue is included.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe Room Lake Side
EUROPE RIVER CRUISE TO LUCERNE TO BASEL TO RHINE RIVER CRUISE
All Aboard!
This morning, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or simply unwind at your hotel and recharge for what is next.
Meet your private English-speaking driver for a transfer from Lucerne to Basel. Approximate travel time is 1.5 hours.
Welcome to Switzerland. Your Suite Ship is ready for boarding. Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board.
Your extraordinary Avalon Waterways river cruise is packed with world-class inclusions and thoughtful amenities designed to make your journey as seamless as it is unforgettable. Enjoy all-inclusive dining with fresh, regionally inspired cuisine, paired with complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner. Choose from a variety of immersive shore excursions, whether you prefer guided sightseeing, active adventures, or hands-on cultural experiences. Stay connected with complimentary wifi and unwind in an inviting, elegantly designed onboard setting. Wellness-focused travelers can take advantage of a state-of-the-art fitness center, yoga classes, and an open-air Sky Deck with whirlpool access, all while enjoying healthy menu options crafted with fresh ingredients.
Avalon Waterways’ exceptional onboard amenities further enhance your voyage. Savor handcrafted cocktails and locally inspired dishes in sophisticated lounges and restaurants. Bask in panoramic river views from the spacious Sky Deck or indulge in relaxation with a soothing onboard massage. In the evenings, enjoy regionally themed entertainment, live music, and special performances that bring your destinations to life. For explorers, complimentary bicycles and Active Discovery excursions offer unique ways to experience each port of call. With Avalon, every detail is designed for a personalized and enriching river cruise experience.
Where you’ll be staying
Panorama Suite (B)
BREISACH
The Land of The Brothers Grimm
Today, enjoy the view on a relaxing bike ride along the Rhine with your Adventure Host. Or, you'll have the option to join a full-day shared tour to the magical Black Forest to experience the Vogtsbauernohf open-air-museum, visit an authentic water mill, and see a traditional butter-making demonstration. Alternatively, join a guided tour to explore Freiburg’s medieval city center, sheltered by the Black Forest amid vineyards and gardens of the Upper Rhine Valley.
Where you’ll be staying
Panorama Suite (B)
KEHL
Taste and Tipple on a Vineyard Visit
Today, discover Strasbourg by bike with your Adventure Host. Alternatively, join a shared City Sightseeing Tour, including Strasbourg’s Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.
This afternoon, take some free time in Strasbourg to visit a museum, or stroll across the city center.
Where you’ll be staying
Panorama Suite (B)
MAINZ
Quintessential Castles
Today, join your Avalon Adventure Host for an inspiring walk in Heidelberg, the Philosophers' way. Or, join a shared tour to Heidelberg Castle to see the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city, and its famed Great Vat, the “World’s Largest Wine Barrel." Alternatively, enjoy a shared City Walk in Mainz, including a visit to the Gutenberg Museum to see the captivating history of printing.
Where you’ll be staying
Panorama Suite (B)
RUDESHEIM
Of Vineyards and Vintages
Today, enjoy a hike with your Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of RÜdesheim. Alternatively, join a shared tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience, and then enjoy a tasting of the authentic RÜdesheimer coffee. Or, take a Guided Visit to the historic 18th-century wooden-barrel cellar of Johannisberg Castle and enjoy a delicious wine tasting.*
En route to Koblenz, sail through the Rhine Gorge (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Take in the breathtaking views of ancient castles perched on cliffs 400 feet above the water and pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei, where the mythological siren’s songs lured ill-fated sailors.
This evening, enjoy free time in Koblenz before a relaxing evening on board with dinner and live entertainment.
*This excursion will not be operated on departure June 23, 2026, and will be replaced by a Guided Tour to Eberbach Monastery with a wine tasting.
Where you’ll be staying
Panorama Suite (B)
COLOGNE
A Healthy Dose of History
This morning, enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host. Or, choose to join shared Walking Tour of Cologne’s important Jewish heritage sites. Alternatively, take a Guided City Walk of Cologne, with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral.
Spend free time over a glass of KÖlsch pale lager, locally brewed for over 100 years!
Where you’ll be staying
Panorama Suite (B)
AMSTERDAM
Cross an Item off the Bucket List
This morning, start your day joining your Adventure Host on an early morning walk in Amsterdam. Or, discover the true beauty of Amsterdam with an off-the-beaten-path Guided Walking Tour through its cobblestone streets for a captivating look at this legendary city*. Alternatively, explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age.”
Take some free time to explore Amsterdam’s colorful streets and canal houses, galleries, and shops.
* This excursion will not be operated on departure April 21, 2027, and will be replaced by a Bike Tour through the Dutch countryside.
Where you’ll be staying
Panorama Suite (B)
AMSTERDAM
Marching through the Museum
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
Meet your private English-speaking assistant who will be waiting for you upon disembarkation, holding a sign with your name on it. They will direct you to your awaiting private transfer, and accompany you to your hotel for check-in.
A Welcome Package with a copy of your itinerary, tickets (if relevant), and any other information that we deem you may find useful, will be provided to you in destination.
With a private guide, depart from your hotel on foot for a half-day walking tour to visit Amsterdam's famous Van Gogh Museum. Located at Museum Square, the Van Gogh Museum has the world's largest collection and display of works by renowned Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh. As you walk, learn about the city sights you pass along the way, while gaining a more in-depth background on this miraculously unique, misunderstood and tortured soul, ranging from his mental health to the bizarre circumstances surrounding his death. Arriving to the museum, spend the next few hours discovering the impressive works on display, reveling in the post-impressionistic prowess of paintings like The Potato Eaters (1885), Sunflowers (1889), and Self-Portrait (1888). Take a return walk back to your hotel or bid farewell to your guide and continue to explore the museum at your leisure.
With an array of options across the city, deciding which restaurants to try during your stay in Amsterdam may prove challenging. To assist, you’ll receive a supplemental composition within your final trip documents, showcasing our top restaurant suggestions for Amsterdam, as selected by Kensington Tours Destination Experts.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic Room
AMSTERDAM
Hone Your Skills
With a private guide and driver, embark on a tour to Delft, one of the highlights of South Holland. Nearly an hour southwest of Amsterdam, Delft is celebrated as the birthplace of famous painter Johannes Vermeer, while over time having also become synonymous with pottery. Head to the historical city center for a tour on foot, seeing the late 15th century New Church, with its massive 357-foot tower looming over all of the nearby two and three story buildings. See the canals, admire the medieval Eastern Gate with its dual spires, and spot the 17th century City Hall building boasting traditional red shutters and Renaissance style. Learn about the city's iconic Delft Blue pottery on a visit of Royal Delft, the only remaining earthenware factory that was established in Delft in the 17th century. A chance to explore your artistic side, you'll be treated to a hands-on private pottery workshop where you'll be led by a professional in an effort to make your very own Delft Blue tile creation. The tile will need to be left in order to bake and properly cure, though if you're keen on the souvenir you can arrange to have it shipped home when ready. Conclude with a return transfer to Amsterdam.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic Room
AMSTERDAM
Iconic Beauty
Venture into the Dutch countryside on a privately guided half-day tour to Zaanse Schans and Volendam. Begin at Zaanse Schans, famed for its historic windmills and scenic charm. Stroll along the riverside and visit the working paint mill, De Kat—the only one of its kind still in operation today. Continue to the fishing village of Volendam, known for its colorful harbor, traditional houses, and maritime heritage. While locals no longer wear traditional clothing day-to-day, visitors can step into the past with a photo opportunity in costume at one of the village’s specialty shops. After soaking in the atmosphere and exploring at your pace, return to Amsterdam with your guide and driver.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic Room
AMSTERDAM
Until Next Time…
Meet your private driver and vehicle for an airport transfer.
ZURICH
Widder Hotel
Just off the world-renowned Bahnhofstrasse in the heart of Zurich’s historic Old Town, the Widder Hotel is one of the most distinctive and unusual boutique hotels in Zurich. The Widder is housed in a beautifully renovated building that connects nine townhouses dating back to the 12th century. The hotel's elegant guest rooms contain traces of history and infuse rich medieval heritage with contemporary design, casual luxury, and 5-star amenities. Guests can savor the discreet atmosphere and haute cuisine at Restaurant Widder, serving Swiss and international gourmet cuisine. Traditional Swiss dishes are offered in the Zur Schtund restaurant, and in summer, guests can also dine in the courtyard. At the Widder Bar, guests can choose from an extensive selection of spirits from around the world.
LUCERNE
Art Deco Hotel Montana
Art Deco Hotel Montana is located in Lucerne in a slightly elevated location and offers charm, atmosphere, and culture. Guests of the Montana enjoy not only the incomparable ambiance of the Art Deco-style rooms but also a unique view across the lake, town, and mountains. Awarded “Hotel of the Year” by SonntagsZeitung’s hotel ratings, the property offers a tantalizing array of gastronomical choices at the on-site bars, lounges, and dining facilities. A day spa is also available at the property. The shortest funicular in the world leads in only 60 seconds from the hotel lobby directly to the lake promenade.
RHINE RIVER CRUISE
Avalon Panorama
The Avalon Panorama led the way as the first of its kind in the industry to feature two full decks of Panorama Suites complete with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows. You'll cruise in river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony in a 200-square-foot suite that's 30% larger than the industry standard. The Comfort Collection beds actually face the view, so you can stretch out and relax with the world at your feet. Retire each evening and wake each morning to a panorama of picture-postcard scenes! Exciting onboard amenities include complimentary computer use in public areas and complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi access, a well-stocked library, a Fitness Center, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, shade system, whirlpool, and delightful Sky Bistro. There's no better way to take in the view than cruising in Europe in the spacious comfort of the Avalon Panorama..
AMSTERDAM
Hotel Estherea
The family-run boutique Hotel Estherea is housed in a row of 17th century buildings on the Singel, Amsterdam's oldest major canal and part of the ring of canals recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Dream away with the richly colored interior, the crystal chandeliers, the lavish fabrics and the expressive prints. Each of the 93 guestrooms and suites are individually styled, with no two alike. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, Dam Square, the central railway station, the main shopping area, museums, theaters, dining options and night life are all within walking distance. While there's no full restaurant on site, guests can relax with a cocktail and light snack at the on-site bar.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.








